‘Hunger Games’ Prequel Is Victorious at the Weekend Box Office
Read on to learn more about the film.
Eight years since the culmination of the original "Hunger Games" franchise, Lionsgate delivers a thrilling return with "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes." Directed by Francis Lawrence, who previously directed three installments of the original series, the prequel transports viewers back over 60 years, delving into President Snow’s origins.
In its opening weekend, amidst a crowded field of new releases, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" achieved an impressive feat, securing the top spot at the North American box office. The film grossed $44 million at the domestic box office and $98 million globally in its first weekend.
The prequel follows a young Coriolanus Snow who is the last hope for his failing lineage. Desperate to rescue his family from poverty, Snow reluctantly accepts a position mentoring the impoverished District 12 tribute, Lucy Gray Baird. When Lucy’s charm captivates Panem, Snow believes he can alter their fates. Filled with suspense, political intrigue and the timeless struggle between good and evil, ultimately revealing if Snow will become a songbird or a snake.
“The Best ‘Hunger Games’ Movie of them all.”
Boasting a 91 percent Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes, "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" is a successful continuation of the fan-favorite franchise. Vox said the film feels “new and sharp” and is “driven by its two charismatic leads, Tom Blyth and Rachel Zegler, sharp writing, and well-executed storytelling, the prequel finds a way to be as thoughtful and agile as the best of the series.” IndieWire said the film is, ““The rare Hollywood prequel that towers over the rest of the franchise” while Variety commended the film saying it “feels like a natural extension of the saga, balancing bloodsport, endangered young love and a heightened level of political commentary that respects the intelligence of young audiences as only Collins can.”
Led by a stellar cast including Tom Blyth, Rachel Zegler, Peter Dinklage, Jason Schwartzman, Hunter Schafer and Viola Davis, the film unfolds a tale of survival, political intrigue, and the delicate dance between good and evil.
“The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” is playing in theaters now and will be available for licensing from Swank soon.